Seriously, these guys are the ILLEST! I’d describe them, but they seem to be the best at describing themselves: “Chiddy Bang is a four piece hip-hop/electronica outlet from Philadelphia. Currently attending their first year of college, they posses a musical maturity that is far superior to the teen-pop cliché. Chiddy Bang blends hard hitting lyricism from front man Chidera “Proto” Anamege, original electronica afro-beat and jazz influenced production from keyboardist Noah Beresin and drummer Zach Sewall, and additional production and vocals from guitarist Pat Braz.”

These guys are really in their first year of college? Damn. They can easily school half of the rap groups out there today. I tried to pick a couple of songs from the 5 that I have, but I couldn’t, so I’ll just share all 5. I suggest to start off with “Sooner or Later,” it’s the best way to ready yourself for the trip you’re about to take. “Sooner or Later” is an exemplary range of sounds that make it sound as modern as it does timeless. “Ice Cream Man” follows suit, but picks it up a notch by taking a couple of tips from the Gospel of Kanye by sampling the Tom Waits classic by the same name. “On Our Way” sounds exactly how I wish Weezy’s rock album would sound. “Fresh Like Us” starts off with a grinding electro beat that reminds me a bit of Gifted’s “Come With Me” and is filled with Cool Kids-like swagger and likability. I’ve saved the best for last, naturally. If you were to check out just one of Chiddy Bang’s tracks, it better be “Because.” This song is probably the most prolific hip-hop record I’ve heard in 2009. Chiddy Bang also puts Kid Cudi’s so-indie sampling to shame by sampling Radiohead’s “Reckoner,” so beautifully that even as a huge Radiohead fan, I’m a little proud. It really doesn’t get any better than that.

Download the tracks after the jump! Continue reading →